Thank you for taking time to visit this site which is dedicated to the memory of Staff Captain Joseph McCann, murdered by crown forces, 15th of April 1972. Joe was a true Republican Socialist and a genuine ‘Working Class Hero’ who encapsulated all aspects of the Republican ideal. Joe led from the front on every occassion whether it was empowering people, organising deomonstrations or taking direct action against British forces. He was no ‘armchair general’.

Please take time to read about Joe and some of the people who inspired him and also to visit the ‘Tributes’ page. We will be adding more links to songs and anything else we come across. Also, take a minute or two to sign our guestbook and leave a message if you wish. Just click the link below.

The family are still making trips back home (up North), piecing together my grandfather’s life story and circumstances for the up-coming biography.

Thank you to all friends, family, and supporters of Joe for your curiosity and interest as this site is for both you and Joe.

Work is currently underway organising an event to commemorate Joe’s 40th anniversary next April. watch this space for details. (09/11/11)

New Badge to commemorate “Big Joe’s” 40th anniversary now available, contact feargalmccann@gmail.com for details. See the badge on the ‘Tributes’ page. Details about the event on the 15th of April will follow shortly.

The march to commemorate our late father, ‘Big Joe’ McCann, will take place on Sunday the 15th of April 2012. Participants will from-up at 14:15hrs in upper Stanfield St, in the Markets area of Belfast and march to the Hamilton St./Joy St. junction. Ciaran McCann will open and close the proceedings which will consist of an oration on behalf of the family given by Feargal McCann and a song in memory of our father which will be performed by Aine McCann. Final respects will be paid to a true ‘Working Class Hero’ when Anne McCann (Joe’s wife) lays a wreath on the spot were Joe died and the flags are lowered to the sound of the ‘Last Post’. All are welcome to attend this historic event and we look forward to seeing you there.

Latest: Badges are currently ‘sold out’ but more will arrive in Belafst around 14th of March. I will up-date here and on facebook.

The 40th Anniversary Commemoration was a great success and we would like to thank all who turned out for making it so very special. Visit the 40th page above for a few pic’s etc.

The Historical Enquiries Team of the PSNI have concluded that Joe’s killing was ‘Unlawful’ & ‘Unjustified’ The family are happy with these findings which confirm once and for all that the Para’s shot Joe in the back in cold blood. See link below for BBC report. The family have added a new page with some comment on the HET report Thanks for visiting the site. Beir Bua!!